DPUC Gives Nod to CL&P and UI To Begin Procurement Process to Acquire Environmentally-Friendly Power For New Service Offering
October 20, 2004 — The Department of Public Utility Control rendered a Final Decision today that gives The Connecticut Light and Power Company and The United Illuminating Company the green light to seek bids from generators of environmentally-friendly clean power for a new service offering to begin early in 2005. Environmentally-friendly clean power is typically a power source that is continuously renewed by nature, i.e. solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. The new offering will be a joint effort between CL&P and UI so that customers of both Companies will have the same opportunities.
In order to facilitate the new offering, the Companies will issue a joint Request for Proposal (RFP) in November with bids due in December. The Department will appoint staff members to oversee and monitor the bidding process. These staff members are prohibited from discussing that process with other staff members and Commissioners once the bids are received.
The Department expects that there will be two winning bidders each offering two products: one service offering for 100% clean power and another for 50% clean power. At this point in time clean power is slightly more expensive than generation from fossil fuels, but as the demand for Renewable Energy increases, prices are expected to decline.
In early 2005, consumers will be able to sign up for this program either through their utility company or directly with the winning bidders. An official name and logo for this Connecticut specific program will be determined in the near future.
Anne C. George, lead Commissioner in this case, noted that, "Connecticut consumers have expressed a desire for more electricity options and for cleaner power. This new program offers them both. It also brings companies into the state and spurs on the development of a competitive electricity market. This program gives Connecticut residents the opportunity to support the renewable energy market in the State and hopefully, the increased support will encourage further clean energy investments and options."
The Department is also currently investigating other program offerings that will allow customers to reduce their electricity demand through conservation programs. The Department expects to render a decision on the conservation options in 2005.
The Department will issue a ruling on the winning bidders for the clean power offerings in December in Docket 03-07-16. Today's Decision and all public filings can be found on the Department's web site at www.state.ct.us/dpuc in the Active Docket Database by searching on the above referenced Docket number.
State of Connecticut Contact: David Goldberg (860) 827-2886
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